Düsseldorf Airport Aims to Boost Efficiency and Restore Long-Haul Connections
Düsseldorf Airport, with a catchment area of 18.5 million people, is the largest airport in continental Europe by reach. It faces competition from other expanding airports like Lisbon and Warsaw. The airport aims to become smarter and more efficient in its operations while also looking to restore its long-haul connections.
Düsseldorf Airport currently handles 47 movements per day in two-hour blocks. It plans to coordinate 60 movements daily without increasing total capacity, a move that could significantly improve its efficiency. The airport's CEO, Lars Redeligx, is optimistic about the return of long-haul connections, driven by local demand.
The A321XLR, with its range of up to 4,700 nautical miles and capacity for 244 passengers, is seen as an ideal aircraft for point-to-point connections away from major hubs. Redeligx is confident that the A321XLR is perfect for Düsseldorf's market and can help recapture lost long-haul territory. Currently, the airport only serves the Middle East with long-haul connections, but Redeligx hopes to restore these lost connections with the help of the A321XLR.
In 2019, Düsseldorf Airport handled 25.5 million passengers, with long-haul operations carrying 1.1 million passengers. The airport expects around 21 million passengers in 2025, reflecting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on air travel.
Düsseldorf Airport is working towards becoming smarter and more efficient in its operations. It aims to restore its long-haul connections, with the A321XLR seen as a key aircraft in achieving this goal. Despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the airport remains confident in its future prospects.
